Trésors Marché

A Give-Away Just for You!

2011-01-18T19:45:00.000-08:00

I hope that you were inspired by the make-over of my master retreat! To help you get started on your own room make-over my good friends at CSN Stores are offering a $50. gift card for their website to one lucky winner. Whether you are inspired by their classic quilts or their modern duvet covers you are sure to find something that fits with your personal decorating style.

Simply visit their website and leave a comment on my blog letting me know what would be on your wish list. A winner will be selected 9pm Pacific time this Sunday, January 23rd.

Good luck and thank you for stopping by my blog!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner! Congrats Deb, I'll email you the gift card code to use at CSN Stores on-line!

Fluffing & Ruffles

2011-01-17T11:42:00.000-08:00

My master bedroom make-over "on the cheap" is now complete! A little fluffing, painting, drapes and even some ruffles and now my little retreat is fini... All of the bedding is from the Simply Shabby Chic line from Target. I love the sheets with the ruffled edges and the airy look of the duvet cover. The white quilt at the foot of the bed was an $8. yard sale find - it's a king size quilt in fabulous condition.

The throw pillow adds just a touch of my favorite color red to the serene whiteness

This vintage piece of art was also a steel at $7. The details of the frame looking like tiny ruffled edges.

The dress form is wearing an apron that belonged to my grandmother - I don't have many things that belonged to her but I do love this apron!

The old window with shelf was another garage sale piece that I picked up for $25. Our wonderful handyman hung it for me - I could have tried but I would have been afraid of it falling on us in the middle of the night. I love this piece and am so glad that I kept it.

The roses are from my garden and I just love the color. Do you think if I ring the bell someone will bring me a cup of tea?

I splurged on white deep pocket drapes from Pottery Barn and we painted the walls a creamy antique white. We had a ceiling fan installed which I love during the warm weather; we kept it very simple with just a basic white fan, no light fixture. I did not want the center of attention to be a ceiling fan.

Thanks for visiting! Our next project is an are in our back yard that we are planning to add pavers to and a spa. I'm so excited about this and promise to take before and after pictures.

I will be offering a give-away on my blog later this week.

A Real Sweet Chick!

2010-11-04T16:37:00.000-07:00

I recently received The Farm Chicks Christmas book and it is definitely a book that you should add to your collection! Serena has done it again with her 2nd book! The photographs are so wonderful and she provides you with a glimpse into her home decorated for the holidays along with the homes of some of her dear friends and former business partner Teri. I can't wait to make these adorable little meringue stars!

There are many recipes that I cannot wait to try for my family. There has been a little chill in the air this week and it makes me want to bake and put a pot of soup to simmer on the stove.

Serena is so talented! She has recently opened up a Farm Chicks Shop in Spokane and of course hosts a wonderful antiques show annually with the most amazing dealers from around the country.

I thank you for your friendship Serena! It was sweet of you to bring me a copy of your book and spend some time during your recent visit!

Behind the Picket Fence

2010-10-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

For all of you So. CA girls I encourage you to come out to Costa Mesa next Saturday, November 6th for this show "Behind the Picket Fence". I will be there with some wonderful items for your home; everything from vintage kitchen scales, vintage jewelry, furniture, and much more! Hope to see you,

Shop Update

2010-10-03T19:23:00.001-07:00

Many new items have been added to my Etsy Shop! Lot's of wonderful shopping this weekend at the Flea Market. Many, many more items will be added this week. Go ahead and take a peak!

Make-over!

2010-09-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

Thank you Jana for the blog and Etsy make-over! If you too are in need of a little fluffing please do visit Sugar Berry Studios!

French Press

2010-09-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

In our house we use one of these….

every morning….there’s just something a little more romantic about a French press on the table accompanied by a generous pitcher of half & half (the fat free is actually very good by Land O Lakes)…plus I don’t really want to clutter my counter with a coffee maker but I would clutter it with one of these ....someday....
….but until then we use our French press, we have several but prefer the insulated one we purchased a few years ago…my recent dilemma has been our tea kettle…I put the kettle on a few weeks ago and when I went to pour the boiling water into the French press half of the handle detached from the kettle….it had melted off….I purchased this kettle about a year ago and I did not pay much for it…in fact I probably paid the min for it at the maxx…don’t get me wrong I love me some TJ Maxx…where was I? CSN recently asked me to review one of their products and the timing was perfect…I just received the tea kettle that I ordered….

is it not darling! It’s from the Paula Dean line of products and the quality seems very good and I don’t believe the handle will be melting off anytime soon. In fact the handle is very comfortable almost like a silicone grip and it stays cool to the touch…I love the look of the kettle with the vintage goose neck. This one holds 2 quarts of water which is perfect for a pot of coffee or tea…CSN has a fabulous selection of tea kettles and the shipping was very speedy.

Blink and it's gone...

2010-09-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

This summer has been great! It was over in just the blink of an eye really...the weather for the most part was incredibly mild but beautiful. We really do live in an amazing place, never mind the fact that our school district has added 9 furlough days to this school year and the kids don't go back until September 13th. We traveled to some amazing places. Our family spent a week in New York City, it's a trip that we will never forget. We were able to do and see so much; Rock of Ages on Broadway, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, an afternoon exploring Harlem's Apollo Theatre and the wonderful restaurant Amy Ruth's, a Sunday in Central Park, Time Square, a Yankees game where we watched A-Rod hit his 600th home run and even a trip over to Hoboken to see the Cake Boss, however we did not wait in line for the 5+ hours to get inside...

My husband and I spend a 4-day weekend in Seattle, the weather was in the 90's and we really enjoyed the time that we spent there visiting Pike Place Market, Bainbridge Island and all of the wonderful restaurants in this gorgeous city.

We even came home with 3 pounds of smoked salmon from here.

I hope that your summer was memorable. Please come back and visit soon for more flea market adventures, product reviews and give-aways. The nice people at CSN Stores have promised some goodies for you in the upcoming months. My master bedroom redux is still in progress and I have visited this site for some inspirations with my project and master bedroom furniture sets!

Fun Finds

2010-07-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

We had some fun yesterday at a neighborhood rummage sale! Not only did we come home with many wonderful things but we also filled up on delicious egg rolls from Janice Huynh. My cute shopping cart was even in the photo taken of her while I was standing in line....yes I really ate 5 of them but they were small...she has been making and selling these for 20 years. Her family was in the back cooking up an order of 400 that were going to be picked up at 9am. She was so sweet and really loves to see all the people in line. When I was in line they were putting out a sign behind us that they were sold out until 11am!
Cute chippy green tool box
Gorgeous chocolate pot and 4 cups, in pristine condition!
A set of Quaker Hurricane silver plated S&P shakers, and handful of skeleton keys and some ironstone platters. I also purchased a chippy white headboard - full size which I don't have but for $2. I could not this one go....it may end up out in the garden....

The big city is calling us and we are leaving soon for a wonderful trip to New York City. The kids have never been - can't wait to share with them.

Just keep believing...

2010-07-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

You are the right person, this is the right time, you've paid your dues, you're thinking the right thoughts, you're doing the right things, and this very moment, you are exactly where you're supposed to be... poised for the happiest time of your life.

Please pray for this family Marija's husband's words just break my heart.

XO Erin

To fan or not to fan?

2010-07-08T20:27:00.000-07:00

that is the question....

What do you think about ceiling fans?

Our master bedroom has very high cathedral ceilings and a ceiling fan would certainly help circulate the summer air...

but...I don't really like the look of most ceiling fans...especially the one's with the light fixtures...

I really want a chandy but hubby wants a fan. I actually found one that was a combo fan and chandy but I thought that was a bit ....I don't know...not the look I was going for.

What do you think about this one? In my white dreamy, ruffly, cloud like, romantic room? Honestly? Could it work?

I bought it today and I'm going to have my electrician install it...fingers crossed that fits the bill!
P.S. Don't forget to enter my give-away here - just a few more days!

Bedroom Redux & a Giveaway!

2010-07-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

I'm working on a master bedroom redux...I want a room that's peaceful and romantic...on a budget... The upholstered head board and soft linens look so dreamy...

A little bit of bling...a little bit rustic...I love the little pouf on the floor...

Soft ruffles...

Just like sleeping on a soft cloud....lot's of layers....

So many inspirations....it's going to be hard to choose...it's a work in progress...

Now for the GIVE-AWAY! The good people at Vanity and CSN Stores have very generously donated a $50. gift card for any item from their on-line stores. There are so many wonderful things to choose from! Simply leave a comment on this blog post and I will select a winner on Sunday, July 11. If you blog about this give-away or become a follower of my blog I will enter you a second time in the give-away. Good luck and thanks for stopping by! Hugs, Erin

An the lucky winner is.......Katrina Thank you all for stopping by!

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-07-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the yummy things I'm taking to my girlfriends Fourth of July party today. Red, White & Blueberry trifle (recipe and photo courtesy of Martha Stewart). I hope you all have a fun and safe Fourth of July holiday! Thank you to all of the men and women that are so bravely serving our country ~ Let Freedom Ring!

I Scream, You Scream....

2010-07-02T12:59:00.001-07:00

we ALL Scream for Ice Cream! Check it out...loving my new Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker! So easy and it makes delicious home-made ice cream in no time at all. Here is the vanilla that I made topped fresh raspberries. We have cranked out vanilla, chocolate with chocolate chips and raspberry sorbet - all delicious. We'll be putting this machine to work over the weekend cuz the freezer is empty....milk, sugar, heavy cream + chocolate or any other ingredients you wish to create yummy frozen treats!

Getting ready here for the Fourth of July holiday. Lot's of sunshine in the forecast, the bbq is ready and perhaps even a dip in the pool is in order! Just need to put out a few more patriotic decorations. Do you have a favorite ice cream flavor? Please share. Oh - I almost forgot - great give-away coming up next week, please come back, you won't want to miss this one! Hugs, E

P.S. I have added some new items to my etsy shoppe

The Goods!

2010-06-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take a moment to share some of the wonderful things I brought home from my trip to Spokane from the Farm Chicks show. I picked up about 1/2 dozen of these folding yardsticks from thrift and antique stores. Isn't this little salt and pepper shaker set darling! I do love red and yes these have found a new home in my kitchen.

The poker chips I found at the Goodwill. I really just loved the box with the original price tag of .45

This set of ice tea glasses are so delicate - they were such a deal at $20 for the set of 6 and the drinking glass caddy was bought from another dealer for $6. how could I pass it up?

I need more dishes like I need another set of dishes! I knew that if I did not purchase these I would regret it later on so I bought them. $30 for 6 plates, 4 dessert plates and 6 berry bowls. It's the Homer Laughlin Red Leaves Hemlock pattern. I love them and they will definitely be used. I may even have to look for some matching pieces.

I bought a few other goodies but here is a glimpse of what I came home with. Enjoying summer I hope as I know I am. Hugs, Erin

A few more Picks from the Farm Chicks

2010-06-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a few more of my memories from the wonderful Farm Chicks show! The dinner at Chaps was just amazing, the food was great, the fun pink "Barn House Martini's" were delicious and the overall atmosphere was just dreamy.... our little take away gift was yummy popcorn packaged so perfectly!

More talented vendors and all of their fabulous merchandise...

Lisa Johnson...

lot's of vintage suitecases

what a great display!

Love the vintage hanky banner...

I need to copy the idea below of planting flowers in the coal bucket

I bought the most charming set of glasses from the dealer below.

I'll get my photos of my purchases together and post them shortly, I have been so inspired by the very talented ladies that helped to make the show all that it is!

A Dream Come True

2010-06-08T19:25:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to attend The Farm Chicks for a few years but...the timing for me has never been right...our family has participated in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life Event for the last 8 years and I have been on the committee for this event the last 5 years as Entertainment Chair and Survivorship Chair. This year my youngest son who is a freshman in HS organized a team of his fellow HS runners in honor of their head coach's wife who is battling cancer. The kids were amazing, tie dying t-shirts and selling them at track meets to raise money for their team and holding local restaurant fundraisers to help their cause all helped them exceed their goal and raise nearly $4,000. I helped him coordinate details for the 33 boys and girls that were going to spend 24 hours at Saddleback College participating in this amazing event. Waivers to be signed, scheduling days when t-shirts could be dyed and sold and coordinating chaperone's to be with them for the 24 hour event. With the details nailed down and organized in a binder all was left in the capable hands of my husband who along with 15 chaperone's would support the kids at this event. They did great and had a fabulous time and I was able to meet my sister in Spokane for The Farm Chicks Show! My friend Serena treated my sister and I like queens! I have never met someone as genuine and kind as Serena. She greeted us Saturday morning with a hug and the opportunity to wander through the show - we felt like VIP's with backstage passes at a concert. If you have never been to the show I highly recommend that you make plans to be there next year. The event that she puts on is truly first class, I have been to several shows and all of her planning, organization and special touches really show through. Many of the wonderful vendors we spoke to felt so honored to participate and we met some of the nicest ladies ever! I'll share more later about what I purchased, the vendors we met and the memorable dinner at Chaps but for now I will let the pictures tell the story of some of what we saw....

The Farm Chicks Show!

2010-05-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

Yes! I'm going, so excited! My sister and I are meeting in Spokane for a weekend of fun!

Flea Market Style Give-Away!

2010-03-02T17:58:00.000-08:00

I really should be packing...I know...such a procrastinator I am! Leaving on a jet plane to Rome soon and my bag should be packed. I have been hunting for my copy of Flea Market Style, I never thought it would be so difficult, if I had only stopped into my neighborhood Ralph's Grocery Store, it was there waiting for me all along!I went to Borders and B&N and Joann's and Michaels and and and....Ralph's had a few copies so I picked one up for you too! Simply leave me a comment here and a lucky winner will be selected on March 12th. I am trying not to open my copy - I'm really trying to save it for the plane ride - I think I might have to hide it! Buona Sorte! (Good luck).

Words to Live By

2010-03-01T18:51:00.000-08:00

Life is too short to wake up with regrets....

so love the people who treat you right....

forget about the ones who don't...

believe everything happens for a reason...

if you get a second chance take it...

if it changes your life let it...

nobody said life would be easy...

they just promised it would worth it!

for more words to live by please visit Tracey's blog

Talent

2010-02-28T19:05:00.001-08:00

Kina Grannis, our local girl from Mission Viejo! She won the Superbowl's Dorito's music contest with her song "Message from the Heart". She has performed for us at our Relay for Life event for a couple of years. She's super sweet and extremely talented. Her new album has come out and it's definitely worth an itunes download. I love her video Valentine

Ciao!

2010-02-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

I have been waiting at the mailbox for the last 2 weeks, very patiently for something very important to arrive!I have been waiting for one of these....mine from years ago expired and was never renewed...so I had to apply for a new one, but I needed it expedited.and now that it's here in my possession I can get packed...because next week I'm flying off to Rome! My husband will be in Florence next week on business and will be extending his trip so that I can meet up with him for a couple of days in Rome and then a train ride to Florence where we will spend a few more days. I'm so excited...even more so now that my passport is here!

A few more details need to be planned...where we will be staying but we have some hotels that were recommended to us and it's not "tourist season". We've put together a list of places we want to visit; the Vatican, Colusseum, Trevi Fountain, etc. Lot's of espresso, walking, shopping and eating are in order for this little adventure we are embarking on. Buonanotte (good night)!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T15:00:00.001-08:00

Recent Finds

2010-02-13T18:13:00.001-08:00

Wanted to post some pics of some recent find from the Irvine Flea Market and some goodies that I picked up this morning bright and early! A classic Betsy Johnson piece with heart and key - so fun!

great old red travel case - I think it will be useful to keep my jewelry making supplies in.

a wonderful vintage typewriter!

a big glass jar with green lid - how sweet it will be filled up with sangria this summer!

great little step stool hand painted with cherries!

vintage coffee and tea canisters in cheery red!

big wonderful down filled pillow -

some wonderful vintage tablecloths - keep an eye out on my etsy shop for a few of these....

That's it for now - busy cleaning today and working in the yard a bit - I'm really ready for spring. Enjoy your weekend! Hugs, Erin

Decadent

2010-01-31T18:45:00.000-08:00

When you hear the word what comes to mind? A rich delicious chocolate cake? An afternoon at a spa being pampered?

Bathroom floor tiles? Oh yes! Truly decadent! The wonderful home that we stayed in last weekend had something truly decadent! Heated bathroom floors! I think it was one of my favorite parts of the house....not the 9 lovely bedrooms with fluffy down comforters and gorgeous quilts on each bed, the amazing kitchen with the Wolf stove, a center island as big as my king size bed or the surround sound that was like being inside a concert hall....yes it was the heated bathroom floors. It made getting out of the shower on a chilly morning more tolerable and that middle of the night run to the potty more bearable. Funny I know!

Here is where we were so fortunate to stay - this is the before picture of the Cow Barn before it was renovated. It's nestled in the woods with a wonderful creek running through the property.

And this is the Cow Barn Lodge today...gorgeous and room was on the right side towards the back. This sits on Francis Ford Coppola's estate is it not absolutely stunning!?

Thank you Mr. Coppola for allowing us the privilege to enjoy this home with our friends!

A Napa Valley Weekend

2010-01-27T20:06:00.000-08:00

We spent a fabulous long weekend in Napa Valley celebrating the hubby's 50th birthday. We were joined by old friends and new...what a wonderful time, we were truly spoiled. Saturday started off with a private tour, tasting and a wonderful lunch at Quintessa. The family that owns the vineyard were so extremely gracious and opened up their home to us and served a most memorable meal of cauliflower soup, grilled salmon with asparagus, a cheese course and the most heavenly chocolate tart with raspberries. Here are a few of the glorious views. Is the playhouse in the vineyard not the most charming thing you have seen!

Yummy wine waiting to be bottled. We tasted some fabulous wines down in the cave.

The vines were asleep but so amazing to see with mustard flowers blooming all around

Breakfast in St. Helena to get our day started.

In the Dark

2010-01-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

Literally, the power went out at around 4:30 tonight and it became dark very quickly. We lit candles and hung out for a while. The power was back on in a few hours - I'm glad because the house was getting chilly and it's hard for the kids to do homework by candlelight...just went out to pick up one of the boys from the High School and it looks like some of the neighbors are still in the dark...I hope their power comes back up soon! We're heading to Napa Valley this weekend to celebrate hubby's big "50"! We're meeting up with some friends. Looking forward to lot's of vino and delicious food. Good night, Erin

A couple of weeks into 2010

2010-01-18T13:52:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine sent this to me on my birthday! I love it ~ "Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said life would be easy. They just promised it would be worth it."

It's pouring here today in So. Cal. A nice change in the weather. I think we can handle a few days of rain every now and then. The garden and lawn certainly need it - everything seems so clean after a good rain. Speaking of clean....yes the garage is clean and I love it. Successful garage sale over the weekend and lot's of organizing and even a bit of posting to my Etsy site. Please check out the goodies over there. Have a wonderful week. Hugs, Erin

Getting organized

2010-01-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

I have been away from the blog for too long. Getting back into the swing of things after holidays was my priority and I was slowed down a bit by hurting my back from of all things ~ sledding! Yes, we had a fabulous trip to Minnesota and went sledding with the kids non-stop. Going over a large bump and landing butt first on a plastic sled followed by a hard fall on an icy drive put me out of commission for a bit. I would do it all over again in a second, we had such a blast. Thanks to the chiropractor and muscle relaxants I'm getting back to normal! My first priority is getting organized and we are well on our way. Lot's of work in the garage - wonderful cabinets were installed before the holidays (whose idea was that??) They look fabulous and we are getting things put away and loving all of the extra cabinet and counter space. In order for us to finish this up we are having a garage sale tomorrow! Lot's of wonderful things we are selling. . I need to pair down my antique business inventory a bit and make things more manageable. My Etsy site has been doing very well and I need to get my little shop posted with some new things over the weekend too! Soooo much to do but it's such a good feeling to get things like this accomplished! If you are in the neighborhood tomorrow stop by the sale!

I also celebrated by birthday after the New Year. My husband and friends spoiled me with dinners out and we even got out to see "It's Complicated" with Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin. Loved that movie, it was laugh out loud funny and at times you could not hear the next line in the movie because the audience was still laughing. It did not disappoint me.

Back to work for me and I'll be back soon with more posts! Hugs, Erin

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T16:40:00.001-08:00

Wishing you a safe and joyous New Year! 2009 was a wonderful year and we hope that 2010 brings many blessings and more good times with family and friends! XO

Happy Holidays from Minnesota!

2009-12-29T08:41:00.001-08:00

We are here in Minneapolis for a few days. We flew here the day after Christmas - my sisters birthday and we showed up at her front door - much to her surprise! Her husband was in on the visit but she had no idea that we were flying in from So. Cal to surprise her. We have spent the last few days sledding and playing in the snow with my niece and nephew who are 3 and 5 years old. We head back home on 12/31 until then we plan to do a lot more sledding, ice skating and drinking lot's of hot cocoa.

4 Heads Being Shaved

2009-12-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, an unusual title for a blog post...enjoy (or not) a video that my youngest and some of his running friends put together in honor of their librarian and the mother of one of their cross country coaches from last year. My son is the second one to shave his head...you boys are really awesome!

Cake Boss

2009-12-07T19:35:00.000-08:00

Our new favorite show on TLC is Cake Boss. The cakes that Buddy and his family create are simply amazing. Their Italian family is hilarious and I am craving cannoli's right now after watching one of the episodes - once a year they sell cannoli's for 25. each!! If you have not yet watched the show - you must!

Here's an easy recipe that my mom sent my sister and I last week;

Happiness Cake
1 C good thoughts
1 C kind deeds
2 well beaten thoughts
1 C consideration
2 C sacrifice
3 C forgiveness

Mix thoroughly. Add tears of joy, sorrow and sympathy. Flavor with love and kindly service. Fold in 4 cups of prayers and faith. Blend well. Fold into daily life. Bake well with warmth of human kindness and serve with a smile any time. It will satisfy the hunger of starved souls.

Christmas Under the Stars

2009-12-04T15:40:00.000-08:00

Tonight I am in Costa Mesa at the Piecemakers Christmas Under the Stars Holiday Show! Please come by for a visit, we are here this evening until 9pm and again tomorrow from 9am-4pm. I have wonderful treasures; glass cloches, burlap pillows, lavender sachets, glittery houses and churches, and oh so much more! If you come by and mention this post you will receive 10% off of your purchase. Happy Holiday Shopping!

End of the Season

2009-11-29T14:24:00.000-08:00

We spent the weekend in Fresno at the CIF State Championship race for Cross Country. We had a great time and we are so proud of the boys! The team finished 6th in the state of CA - quite an accomplishment and I know they will be back next year hungry for more. The weather was gorgeous, crisp, cold and the leaves in the park were changing colors. Congratulations THHS Boy's Cross Country - you are awesome, we're so very proud!

"Are you a Shabby Girl?" asked Rachel Ashwell

2009-11-18T18:13:00.000-08:00

I had the privelege of meeting Rachel Ashwell last Sunday at Country Roads Antiques in Old Town Orange! She was a delight! Very down to earth as she asked us to gather around while she shared some stories about her latest book Shabby Chic Interiors.

She shared stories about some of the photographs in the book; one photo that was to be the cover in the end was not. It shows her seated with lot's of vintage prom dresses in the background. She said that an hour before the shot was taken she had learned that her business was at a turning point that she had dreaded. She wrote most of the book on her blackberry in a small basement flat in London. It sounds a bit romanic but I think she was truly going through such a horrible time in her life - she said she just wanted to be underground.

She was so pleasant and friendly and I have such a respect for her now after listening to her tell a bit of her story. Sue of Country Roads and her family put on a wonderful event. The food was catered by Paris in a Cup. Such a yummy treat that we decided to head over there for lunch; sinful baked potato soup and tea sandwiches were my choice - absolutely delicous!

Relationship Crossroads

2009-11-12T17:20:00.000-08:00

Why must relationships be so hard? No matter what happens they are. Whether it is a relationship with parents, friends, co-workers, a spouse or child - sometimes they are just very painful. I have to honestly say that I am at a crossroads with a few relationships that are very dear to me and it's very hurtful, you can either close your eyes, take a deep breath and move on or hold a grudge. Unfortunately I have a tendency to hold a grudge.I've done a lot of soul searching lately and I have realized that I am certainly half of the problem but I have also done a lot of re-evaluation of some relationships and I just don't know how much effort I want to continue to put into some of them. As I roll into my mid forties I'm trying to be a much more forgiving person but I also don't want to be taken advantage of. I want to surround myself with people that bring me joy and share the same interests as me and are passionate about the things that they are involved in. Life is just too short you know? I want to be spontaneous and enjoy every moment! Don't get me wrong...I definitely have many wonderful dear friends and a husband that I adore and my boys are the greatest gift - just thinking about this more lately because some of my relationships are definitely at a crossroads...

Repeated frustrations and disappointments are always a reflection of repeated misunderstandings and presumptions.

New Shop Arrivals

2009-11-08T16:52:00.000-08:00

I've been busy today getting items listed on my Etsy Shop This set of Haviland Limoges dishes are just dreamy aren't they? So delicate and shabby chic, perfect for a special birthday or shower luncheon or even just a Sunday afternoon tea with friends!

I recently found a few of these folding yardsticks - they are fun and can be formed into many shapes; stars, crowns...

I kept some of these rooster juice glasses for myself but I want to share some with a lucky shopper too.

This old shabby black kitchen scale is available in the shop too, please note that many of my items include free shipping in the U.S. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Not a care in the world

2009-11-05T20:13:00.000-08:00

The thing that's totally different between children and adults is that children have the ability to spontaneously use their imagination to forget what's bothering them and be inspired by every pony, feather, or bug that crosses their path. I really want to be like this more often!

Trick or Treat!

2009-10-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

The chili is bubbling on the stove top and the corn bread is in the oven. We are ready to great the little ghosts and goblins with sweets. Have a safe and enjoyable Halloween!

Look Mom No Shoes!

2009-10-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise last weekend when Nick crossed the finish line....

in his socks! I had been snapping pictures and cheering him on the whole race and never noticed that for the first two miles he was running in one shoe...

and that for the last mile he ran only in socks....his time was still incredible...the blisters are still there...what a guy he is!

Broomstick

2009-10-25T19:54:00.000-07:00

These are the cute little globes that my sister painted. Mine is unpacked and out on display. I love these!

2009-10-22T18:22:00.000-07:00

If people would just start by saying "it's fun," when it seems hard; "I'm happy," when they seem sad; and "I know," when it seems as if they don't, they'd finally discover that it really is, they really are, and they always have.

Flea Market Find

2009-10-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

My husband and I have been searching for the perfect Farmhouse Table. We have been to the flea markets, various antique malls, etc. Well, a few weeks ago we spotted a table at the Irvine Flea Market. It included 2 benches and 2 chairs but the problem was all I really wanted was the table, you see I already have several vintage bistro chairs that I plan to use at the table. We thought about the table and decided that we would continue through the next few aisles and see if anything else caught our eye before spending $$$ on this table. I could always re-sell the benches and chairs.

As we rounded the corner of the last aisle we spotted this beauty! The ladies that sold it to us were delightful and it was a real bargain - 1/2 the price of the table we saw earlier! Stop by Flea Market Style for "I'm A Flea Marketeer Party" and share your flea market finds - this is my latest treasure! We love it so much that we have moved it into our French Country Kitchen

Off to the Races!

2009-10-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post this morning, I'm sitting here listening to the birds chirp at 6am
on a Saturday. Hubby is with friends this weekend - they will cheer on their favorite team at Lambeau field tomorrow in Green Bay, WI! Our youngest is running this morning at OC Champs, he's running varsity today, his coach gave him his varsity uniform yesterday...he's nervous...we're so proud of him, he's a sophomore you know and our "baby". Here he is last weekend finishing 5th for the varsity race in Huntington Beach. It's going to be in the 80's this weekend in So Cal - hard to believe it's the middle of October. I plan to do some comfort food cooking this weekend, read a magazine or two and hang out with my boys - who am I kidding? My teenagers don't want to hang out with me! My oldest is still snoozing in his room and will be for several hours more I am sure - lucky guy! Enjoy your weekend everyone - it's going to be a great one.

Etsy

2009-10-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

My Etsy is finally on-line. Just a few things listed today and many more to come. Please check the shop often, more goodies will be listed daily.

Small things

2009-10-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

Appreciating the small things...I’m certain that I don’t do this enough. I realized this even more as I watched Stephanie Nielson’s appearance on Oprah last night when I got home and I was very moved…who was not? I have been following her blog for a little bit now and she and her husband are truly amazing. Her struggle to recover from the plane crash that left most of her body badly burned and the heartache she endured over her children’s feelings towards her drastic change in appearance really got to me. A woman from So Cal spent a day with Stephanie on the premise that this woman felt that her life of being a homemaker was very mundane, play dough made her sick and she hated making school lunches, blah, blah, blah. I’m a working mom and if I could turn back the clock I probably would have tried to make it work financially for me to stay home with my kids but we can’t turn back the clock and it's such a waste of time to have regrets. One thing that I can do is enjoy what my son’s are interested in; running and hip hop music. I’m not a runner anymore and could not possibly keep up with my 15 year olds 5 minute mile pace but I can be an enthusiastic spectator at his cross country meets and take lot’s of photos of him and his friends. I honestly hate to miss a race because I know that there may not be many left should he choose at some point to stop (please don’t Nick – you’re an awesome runner and I love to watch you, you make it look so easy).

I’m not a rapper either but I can support my 16 year olds dream to record music, write lyrics and perform. You’re a very talented boy and I think you will go far, keep following your dreams.

Have you noticed, that the more you hurry, the slower you go?

The more you wait, the longer it takes?

The more you worry, the less you dream?

But the more you live, love, and laugh, the more you live, love, and laugh.

Have a great week - without regrets!

Winner!

2009-09-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

Roberta of Tresor Trouve is the winner of my give-away. Please send me your address and I'll get your package into the mail when I return next week from a trip to visit family and friends in the Midwest.

An Afternoon in Old Town Orange

2009-09-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my hubby and I made a quick trip to Old Town Orange. We stopped for lunch at a new restaurant Haven and enjoyed mussels, flat bread and an icy cold beer. Then we shopped, we're searching for a farm/harvest table for our patio. The first shop we stopped into was The Victoria Co. All decked-out for autumn the shop was packed to the ceiling (literally) with scrumptious treasures. If you have never been to this shop you must stop by. It's very long and narrow and the merchandise she has is just wonderful. I picked up a birthday gift for a friend and that I could not resist - can't show a photo as she does peek at this blog occasionally. I always enjoy browsing through the Victoria Co. and all the other wonderful shops in this quant town straight out of the past.

One-of-a-kind pillows, vintage treasures and so much more!

She has vintage table cloths in every color scheme - they are so wonderful...

We did not find our table on this trip but we purchased a birthday gift for my nephew who I am visiting next week in MN. We'll keep hunting - that is half the fun!

Have a great week and don't forget to leave a comment on my post below for my 2nd anniversary blog-give away! Hugs,

2nd Anniversary Give-away!

2009-09-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is coming to a close...the kids go back to school tomorrow. The photo below was the view from our ocean-front vacation home in Newport Beach. The kids had such a great time spending their days playing frisbee, smash-ball, skim boarding and biking into town for pizza. We enjoyed wonderful meals, fruity cocktails and bonfires on the beach. Walking along the board-walk in the evenings and peaking into some of the gorgeous homes inspired us to buy lottery tickets. My friends and I all had our homes picked out should we be the lucky ones. Lottery winners we were not but wonderful memories were made and plans for another trip next year were unanimous. In celebration of my blogs 2 year anniversary I am having a give-away, just a few of my favorite things that I want to share with all of you. I came upon blogging my accident as a searched for tea party information a few years ago. The first blog I was introduced to was The T-Cozy Susan had a wonderful tea house and shop that has since closed but her blog and etsy site remain an inspiration. In honor of my love to shop the Flea Markets the lucky one will receive this adorable bag made from vintage fabric - perfect for that shopping trip.

Also included will be this wonderful book Gardenhouse and these sweet oversize embroidered napkins.

a vintage cookie plate for sweets and for the Dreamer in all of us a little inspiration to keep us chasing after our Dreams no matter what they are!

All you have to do to enter my give away is leave a comment. If you become one of my followers I'll add your name in a second time and...If you blog about this giveaway and link back to me, I'll add your name a 3rd time (please let me know in your comment that you'll be doing so). The lucky winner's name will be drawn on Saturday, September 19.

Thank you for blogging friendships and for stopping by every once in a while to take a peak here at Tresors Marche. I hope to have my Etsy shop up very, very soon!

"My" Gardenhouse Inspirations

2009-08-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

I'm loving this book! My friend Laura gave it to me and it has such wonderful and simple inspirations...I love the chippy/rusty stool! I have the dish rack pictured below. I need use in my kitchen to display some of my transfer ware.

I love old bistro chairs. I have 4 on my patio. I'm still in search of the perfect narrow farm table for my patio.

looking through this book has me inspired to look through some of my treasures and give my patio a little fluffing!

We're headed for some R&R down at the beach. We're renting a beach house with some of our besties - it should be a wonderfully relaxing time ~ with 8 teenagers! lot's of magazines, books, food and of course a little rum and pineapple! I'll be posting my 2-year anniversary give-away when I return - 2 years of blogging that is. Take care!

Cheap Tricks Decorating

2009-08-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

Last night The Alley hosted a class by Interior Decorator Claudine Barnett. Hosts Karee and Rene have a wonderful new store in Mission Viejo - the name is changing soon but they were mum as to what the new name would be. They used to have a wonderful store in Ladera Ranch "The Loft" that they sold. Prior to that their shop "Vintage Charm" was just a few blocks from where they are now.

Claudine shared with the group tips and tricks to create wonderful tablescapes and how to make your bookshelves pop with style. They plan to hold classes regularly so please check their blogs for future dates. Their merchandise at The Alley is ever-changing and ranges from eclectic to Tuscan-style - lot's of wonderful accessories! There is a wonderful lamp there that I have my eye on!

Buttons & Inspiration

2009-08-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

Here is the bracelet that I created last week at a class. The vintage glass buttons are simple but elegant. The beading work that we did was really fun and I learned some wonderful techniques from Heather.

I'm really inspired to create more with the buttons and baubles that I have collected. But for now I'm off to bake a chocolate cake! Our baby turns 15 tomorrow and his request was chocolate and more chocolate!!

Fun at the Market

2009-08-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

What an awesome day it was at the Peddlers Market Saturday! I was hanging out with some of my besties and selling, selling, selling! I loved it. Oh yes and I did have a slice of apple pie after I set up my space Friday afternoon :) I snapped a few photos and honestly most of the things shown were wrapped up and placed in bags to go home with happy customers.

Not sure if you can see the vintage shakers below but they went home with the lovely Janice from The Faded Cottage. She and her mom Kathy are delightful and it was nice to see both of them again! Janice is going to fill the shakers with glitter! I just love that idea ~ I need to look for more shakers!!

I went to a great estate sale Friday morning and picked up 3 great vintage suitcases. Only one came home with me and I think I will decoupage it with vintage sheet music. Lot's of friends came by to visit and shop, it was such a wonderful day!

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Summertime Pleasures

2009-07-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

They include shopping don't they? Join us this Saturday at Piecemakers in Costa Mesa for the Peddlers Market August 1st. Over 100 dealers selling antiques, collectibles and much more. I'll be there along with friends Debra, Pam and Laura! The beach can wait a bit - we'll be there bright and early! Oh, did I mention that they have the best apple pie ever!

Objets Trouvés

2009-07-26T11:49:00.001-07:00

...Found Items. These are some of the treasures that I found yesterday morning, bright and early I might add. I was home by 9am. A neighborhood in Lake Forest held their annual sale and let me tell you this is like going to a flea market! House after house after house is selling everything from treasures from the attic to egg rolls. Yes, I did have egg rolls for breakfast yesterday and they were delicious! The lady that makes them was featured in the OC Register and she has a line down her drive way - how can you go wrong 2 for $1. Hey, they kept me going as I walked the neighborhood with my cart overflowing with these goodies! I met Linda from La Maison Rustique. I'm going to take a little road trip to visit her next Barn Sale. She was hanging out with some friends here locally and I was fortunate enough to pick up some wonderful treasures from them ~ the watering can, and pink bucket.

this super-cute vintage tablecloth - I love the colors!

these three guys will be perfect for keeping one of the doors from blowing shut

At another house I picked up these wonderful hankies

I love this one! "How to Speak French" - this one might have to be framed.

this rose hanky and great little wooden caddy. The nesting benches in the first photo were found while I was nibbling away on my egg rolls. Of course they did not fit in my little cart so I loaded up my treasures and braved the wall to wall traffic to pick these up. They'll get a little makeover and can be found at Piecemakers August 1st

Now for the pièce de la résistance! This little number was delivered to me by my friend Linda. She's a trashing buddy but we went separate ways on Sat. She picked this up for $30. Yes you read that correctly. She though I could either keep it or take it to Piecemakers. Well, for now it's staying with me...I'm slowly moving pieces into it...
lot's of my cream pottery...I just love the details on the glass door.
Not sure if I will paint it yet....what do you think?
Enjoy the rest of your weekend and stop over to a Bushel and a Peck for a wonderful give-away!

Treasures

2009-07-19T20:13:00.000-07:00

I spent yesterday morning at the beach - my favorite little town. It was so peaceful...I stopped off at a few yard sales; I found this great red (fav color) Coach bag - practically brand new and a brand new Coach wallet. I spent $20 on the bag and $15 on the wallet. I also picked up a pair of these cute valences - vintage fabric reproduction. They will make cute pillows or ?? I also bought this great vintage scale in a minty green and this wonderful vintage tablecloth. The scale will come to Piecemakers and the tablecloth stays with me! I also bought this chippy white folding chair.This afternoon we headed to the beach again and sat ourselves down in the sand for a few hours. Then we stopped at our favorite consignment store and I scored this enormous glass cloche! It's diameter is almost as large as the chair seat...I think it may be coming with me to Piecemakers in 2 weeks!

It was a wonderful weekend...I hope yours was too!

Farmers Market

2009-07-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

This morning I headed to Laguna Beach and made a stop at the Saturday morning Farmers Market. I picked up a few things for dinner tonight; big green onions to grill, radishes and heirloom tomatoes. My hubby is going to make a big grilled steak salad ~ can't wait. I also stopped at a few yard sales and purchased some wonderful things that I will snap some pics of them a little later. Time to do a little more laundry, some gardening and picking up around the house...enjoy your weekend!

A treasure from Kentucky

2009-07-17T17:38:00.000-07:00

My husband was in Kentucky on business earlier this week; learning all about how bourbon is distilled - rough life I know...he took lot's of photos of the beautiful country back there and he even popped into an Antique Store. When I looked through his photos I spotted the creamer and sugar pictured below. I have that set and I immediately fell in love with the little square dishes. How perfect for dessert! Well, I called the ladies back in Bardstown, KY ...at Mary's the dishes are available and yes they will ship them to me! My older son said last night "don't we have enough plates"? Come on...you can never have enough cute dishes can you?

My husband also wanted to bring home this antique table above - it's $4,000. but it is gorgeous!

One day perhaps I'll pay a visit to ...at Mary's what a lovely shop Mary has don't you think?

Thank you

2009-07-12T10:50:00.001-07:00

Thanks so much to everyone that stopped by yesterday for the tent sale! Special thanks to Landmark Antiques in Mission Viejo ~ the wonderful ladies there shared my sale information with all of their dealers. The vintage wicker desk left with a very sweet dealer and I look forward to seeing it at Landmark on my next visit but I'm sure it won't be there for long ~ sure to go home with someone else soon. Pam, Debra and Amanda had wonderful goodies for sale; fabric bracelets, door stops, headbands and unique jewelry. More pics will come tomorrow - I need a little R&R today. We ended our day yesterday down at the lake with some of my besties sharing wonderful food (thanks to my hubby) and some tropical cocktails and of course lot's of laughs as we listened to Johnny Lang perform. Have a wonderful Sunday ~ Erin

Sneak Peak!

2009-07-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

Breakfast of Champions! This is how I started my day today - coffee with lots of cream and a powdery donut...not the most healthy but it was a nice treat. Here are some "sneak peak" pictures for tomorrow ~

I've been working hard today to get ready...lot's of sparkles...

lots of pretties...don't you just love this little desk and chair!

these little glasses are very French...perfect for a glass of wine, a votive candle or even juice...

I think I'm going to rest for a bit...hope to see you tomorrow ~

Tent Sale this Saturday!

2009-07-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

No, I won't be hosting a circus at my home... Just a fabulous tent sale ~ lot's of antiques and treasures. Many great deals from 9am~2pm on Saturday, July 11th. If you don't have my address please leave me a comment and I'll respond back to you with details!

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

It's a long holiday weekend - so nice to have an extra day off! When I came home last night I put out some of my patriotic decor. Here are some glimpses of my front porch. Even some of the birdhouses have some patriotic flair

I made this banner, love the fabrics. I'm really pleased at how it turned out.

God Bless America and all of our armed service men and women for their commitment to the people of our country!

I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday! We'll be getting together with good friends and enjoying yummy food and a primo view of the fireworks from their backyard pool. ~Erin

Let the records play

2009-06-29T21:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight my youngest and I hung out together. We went out and bought one of these!

He's been collecting albums lately - a few he purchased at the flea market yesterday. We're listening to Jim Croce right now as I type this. He of course loves to change the speed on the record player so that it sounds like Alvin and the Chipmunks! He's my tie dying, retro dressing, running guy! He also would not let me stop at Sonic tonight for dessert...

Tomorrow night my hubby and I are going to see Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood at the Hollywood Bowl! I'm so excited - I have never been to this venue before. We have seen Eric perform 3 times and he is really awesome. Have a great week!

Weekends...

2009-06-28T20:42:00.001-07:00

Why do the weekends just fly by in no time at all? Ours was sure packed with fun though! Saturday morning I "trashed" with a friend. I only bought a few things, a really great old window, 2 white wooden doll chairs, a vintage looking camp light fitted with a chandelier bulb and wired ready-to-go and that was it for me. That evening we joined friends at our lake - here was our view below - it's just so gorgeous to sit down there with a glass of wine and the company of good friends.

We were entertained by trumpeter Chris Botti. He was a very gracious performer here he is pictured above with Sting. He has performed with some of the best musicians and artists.

Sunday morning we slept in a bit and then took the boys to the flea market in Tustin. My youngest was looking for old albums and he came home with quite an assortment; Crosby, Stills and Nash, Jim Croce, George Harrison, Jefferson Airplane and Donovan. He was quite pleased and is now on the hunt for a record player - I know he'll find one! Our oldest was interested in rosary beads. He found the one pictured below and I also bought one from one of my favorite dealers - it's still in my bag - pictures later. We then enjoyed a delicious brunch up the road at Zov's Bistro. Banana pancakes, feta and tomato omelette's and their wonderful hash brown cakes! This little guy is just waiting for his pancakes with warm maple syrup!
This afternoon we headed over to the Dunmore Lodge to honor our good friends Tom & Jean for their 50th anniversary! Their son and daughter in law hosted a Murder Mystery party. It was really well done and when we arrived we were greeted by Adam our valetHere is Tom, with the beard aka the Senator who was murdered at the lodge. It was wonderful to celebrate this occasion with two very special people - Congratulations Tom & Jean!Weekends are so wonderful - why can't they last just a little longer?

Bounce!

2009-06-21T20:26:00.000-07:00

Bounce This Along!

The US Postal service sent out a message to all letter carriers to put a sheet of Bounce in their uniform pockets to keep yellow-jackets away.

Use them all the time when playing baseball and soccer. I use it when I am working outside. It really works. The insects just veer around you.

All this time you've just been putting Bounce in the dryer!

1. It will chase ants away when you lay a sheet near them. It also repels mice.

2. Spread sheets around foundation areas, or in trailers, or cars that are sitting and it keeps mice from entering your vehicle.

3. It takes the odor out of books and photo albums that don't get opened too often.

4. It repels mosquitoes. Tie a sheet of Bounce through a belt loop when outdoors during mosquito season.

5. Eliminate static electricity from your television (or computer) screen..

6. Since Bounce is designed to help eliminate static cling, wipe your television screen with a used sheet of Bounce to keep dust from resettling.

7. Dissolve soap scum from shower doors. Clean with a sheet of Bounce.

8. To freshen the air in your home - Place an individual sheet of Bounce in a drawer or hang in the closet.

9. Put Bounce sheet in vacuum cleaner.

10. Prevent thread from tangling. Run a threaded needle through a sheet of Bounce before beginning to sew.

11. Prevent musty suitcases. Place an individual sheet of Bounce inside empty luggage before storing.

12. To freshen the air in your car - Place a sheet of Bounce under the front seat.

13. Clean baked-on foods from a cooking pan. Put a sheet in a pan, fill with water, let sit overnight, and sponge clean. The anti-static agent apparently weakens the bond between the food and the pan.

14. Eliminate odors in wastebaskets. Place a sheet of Bounce at the bottom of the wastebasket.

15. Collect cat hair. Rubbing the area with a sheet of Bounce will magnetically attract all the lose hairs.

16. Eliminate static electricity from Venetian blinds. Wipe the blinds with a sheet of Bounce to prevent dust from resettling.

17. Wipe up sawdust from drilling or sand papering. A used sheet of Bounce will collect sawdust like a tack cloth.

18. Eliminate odors in dirty laundry. Place an individual sheet of Bounce at the bottom of a laundry bag or hamper.
19. Deodorize shoes or sneakers. Place a sheet of Bounce in your shoes or sneakers overnight.
20. Golfers put a Bounce sheet in their back pocket to keep the bees away.

21. Put a Bounce sheet in your sleeping bag and tent before folding and storing them. It will keep them smelling fresh.
22. Wet a Bounce sheet, hose down your car, and wipe lovebugs off easily with the wet Bounce.

Celebrate!

2009-06-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

We're celebrating this weekend - the Class of 2009! Two very awesome young girls graduated Thursday night and we're celebrating them this weekend. Two of my besties in the world are celebrating each of their oldest daughters accomplishments - they are so very proud.

These girls have talent, passion, drive and the wonderful lessons that their parents and family's have taught them. I know that they will be successful in the next chapters of their lives. Going off to college and taking with them wonderful memories of growing up in our neighborhood.

Last night my friend and I made the tissue paper pom poms like the one's shown above for the graduates celebration this afternoon. Ours were in hues of "Tiffany Blue". They were so much fun to make - addicting really! I also made a sweet banner for the honoree (I'll try to snap a pic later at the party)

TGIF

2009-06-13T21:00:00.001-07:00

So the week started off with me plunking down lot's and lot's of $$ for these...

They'll be delivered next week. I sure hope that they fold my laundry and put it all away for me - they should for all the money I'm spending.

No I did not buy this machine...but I did go in this morning for my annual mammogram. Geeze I really try not to watch what's going on but mercy me! Done for another year and I count my lucky stars each year for a phone call with good news!

Friday night we went to Newport Beach for the Jazz at the Beach and listened to the sounds of Al Jarreau. It was a real treat to hear him and he sang many of our favorites. He's getting up in years but is still a wonderful entertainer! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Farm Chicks Show Weekend!

2009-06-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

I was not there…in Spokane…shopping…meeting wonderful people…trying to figure out how to get purchases back to So Cal… I was not at the Farm Chicks Show

This is where I was!

The Mission Viejo Relay for Life at Saddleback College. Over 1,000 people, over 100 Cancer Survivors, 24 hours of non-stop activity, over $160,000 raised for the American Cancer Society. I partnered with wonderful ladies; Pat, Kathy, Jill and her Girl Scout Troop to serve our Cancer Survivors a fabulous brunch. Until next year…
If that was not enough we then headed South Sunday morning to Camp Pendleton to watch our youngest (he’s almost 15) participate in the annual Mud Run. 6 miles, mud, swamps and lot’s of laughs! He ran with two of his cross country coaches and two Trabuco alumni in the 6 mile race. You need to meet your teammates prior to crossing the finish line and cross together. Out of all the teams Nick finished 3rd with two of his mates. His time was 47 minutes. They waited for the others to finish and then all crossed together. They are already planning for next year’s race. I hope that next year’s Farm Chick’s Show does not conflict with either of these events and if they don’t I’ll be in Spokane!

Saturday Mornings

2009-05-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

This morning I was in the mood for a little thrifting/trashing/hunting. The morning started out a little slow but I quickly picked up momentum and my first purchase was this manly dress form. I have his mate that I'm "antiquing" I'll have to name them...any ideas? This darling tea cart was a steal, the owner had it recently powder coated in this cream color - it folds flat and it's just great, very sturdy. The straw hat is so adorable and it's in the original hat box - on the side it even says "summer navy straw". I'll research the box and label in the hat to learn more. I have two of the tiered pieces and I'll be getting them on etsy very soon!

The blue shelf just looks so chippy and cute. Not my color but I know someone else will love it. It was kind of a blue morning; cute blue sewing box, blue shelf...it's gloomy outside today and I'm hoping the sky will turn blue soon!

The porcelein shoes are cute and I'm going to replace the ties with ribbon. The little glass salts have hens on two and ducks on two. The frame/stand will be great with a mirror in place of a photo!

So here is my workspace in the garage - I think I need to spend some time in here cleaning up a bit! Have a wonderful weekend!

Our Fundraiser ~ 3rd Annual!

2009-05-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

I think I have finally recovered from our fundraising event! This was our 3rd annual Wine Tasting at our home. We raised $5,500. for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life in Mission Viejo. Our team Judy's Angels was started 7 years ago after we lost one of my BFF's to melanoma. We could not have had such a successful event without the support and generosity of so many...we were truly honored to have the Winemakers below come down and be a part of this. Jeff Munsey from Sort This Out Cellars, Darren Procsal from Atlas Peak and Jeff Stewart of Buena Vista - they donated their fabulous wines and amazing visits to their wineries! My BFF's Jill and Darlene - we co-hosted this event along with my hubby and our BFF Debra

Chuck and his wife Susan (my husband works for Chuck) were there to lend a hand. The smoked gouda cheese he was slicing was addicting on the warm cranberry bread.

Chuck kept asking me for sharp knives...

Just some of the wines we were pouring

This is Debra - check out her new blog - she's an amazing artist.

We prepared all of the food ourselves; bruschetta, olives, cucumbers with feta cheese, cheeses galore.

Skewars with buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes and fresh basil and of course more cheese!

It was and exhausting and emotional night we will never forget - 80 + guests in my yard and it looked so beautiful!

Apron Love

2009-05-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

A quick post tonight...it's been a busy week. You see my husband and I and my BFF's hosted a fundraiser at my home Saturday night. It was our 3rd annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser for our
Relay for Life Team for the American Cancer Society. I'll post about it with photos later this week - I'm tired and a bit drained for the event but good news ~~~~ we raised $5500. WAHOO! Now for a little Apron LOVE! I found this cutie at Pier I tonight - we were getting dinner at Pei Wei and stopped in to Pier I for a quick browse - sooo cute! They only had one at this location but are due to get more in - you need to pick one up

My Mother's Day Present!

2009-05-12T20:19:00.001-07:00

About 2 weeks ago I sent my hubby an email hinting to him that I would very much like the Farm Chicks new cookbook "The Farm Chicks in the Kitchen". Well a funny thing happened the next day; someone that I know from my company asked me to help out with a situation involving a reservation that he had made for a family friend. I was happy to help - not a big deal, he was now in another state and he needed a voucher for this friend. I asked him to email me the details and I would take care of it. He sent me the details and I did not pay too much attention or make a connection with the name of the guest...I confirmed back to him that all was taken care of - end of story? No...the following day I came into the office and had an email from Serena Thompson thanking me for helping out with the arrangements...as I scrolled down in disbelief it was indeed from Serena of The Farm Chicks! I sat and stared at the screen for a few minutes - I have followed them for a long time and have purchased goodies for myself and friends from their wonderful web-site. I emailed her back letting her know that the day before I had asked my husband for their book (I even emailed her a copy of the emails he and I exchanged). Well I had the pleasure of meeting Serena earlier this week and she brought me this!!! YIPPEEE!

She even signed it for me :)
Have you ever looked forward to meeting someone that you admire only to be disappointed by the expectation that you had of them? This was NOT the case - Serena is the most gracious and sweet lady you will ever meet, really lovely in every way and I only wished we could have spent more time with each other. I won't be able to get up their way for the show in a few weeks but I am definitely planning to visit Serena and Teri next year! If you don't have this book already (maybe I'm the only one that didn't) run don't walk to pick up a copy - it's lovely! The recipes are wonderful, the photographs are gorgeous and the stories of how they started their dream are inspiring to say the least! Thank you Serena for the wonderful gift!

Saturday Finds & Mother's Day

2009-05-12T19:51:00.001-07:00

Well Saturday was the annual Lake Forest Garden Club's boutique and plant sale. It usually takes place the day before Mother's Day and these ladies have such an awesome event. Whatever I have bought and planted has thrived and you can't beat their prices. I bought 4 huge ivy plants for $2. each, a small hydranga and a few other plants that are new to me but I only spent $16. for all of the plants. Their boutique was awesome, just look at the darling chandy that I bought - it's hanging over my dining table now out on the patio. I embelished it a bit with crystals and darling shades. I luv it! I also found the cute little iron gate things and a metal caddy.

Mother's Day was wonderful! My guys made a scrumptious brunch; fresh raspberries, strawberries and blackberries with sweet cream. Smoked salmon and peppered salami...

my husband's homemade banana bread...I must have bought two dozen bananas last week because everyone in my house was making smoothies...we ended up having about 12 left over that could only be used for one thing...nana bread.

and a yummy, yummy frittata with feta cheese, tomatoes and garlic chives.

My guys are the absolute best! We had a wonderful day browsing shops in Fullerton and having a late lunch. Jake the Blog Dog agrees it was one of the nicest days ever!

Peddlers Market & Friends!

2009-05-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

The Peddlers at Piecemakers was a great day! The weather was practically perfect and the apple pie for breakfast is always a plus! I brought along a couple bigger pieces with me Saturday morning and I was pleasantly surprised when they sold almost immediately. Here's a little peak at my booth in the setting up stage. When I set up Friday evening there were definitely some early shoppers browsing our spaces and when I came back Saturday morning the sweetest mother and daughter came by and bought my chippy potting bench!

Janice of the Faded Cottageand her mom were such dolls! They come for every show from Las Vegas and shop and shop and shop! Below is the cute chippy potting bench that she took home - not sure how she managed to pack it in her car but where there's a will there's a way!

I also had a visit from Lidy of the Little French Garden House who stopped by for a quick hello before she went home to get ready for the amazing baby shower she was hosting - the gorgeous photos are on her blog. My friend Laura also had a space and she was introducing her line of shoe huggers - as soon as her web-site is ready I'll add the linky - they are really cute and the fabrics they chose are wonderful! It was an awesome day and I'll be back there on August 1st for the next Peddlers Market! I don't have many shows on my agenda for this summer - it's just too hot...

Happy May Day!

2009-05-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

Happy May Day! It was a wonderful day indeed! I set up my space for tomorrow at Piecemakers Flea Market in Costa Mesa. For any of you in So. Cal it's located at Harbor and Adams ~ West a few blocks at Mesa Verde. There are over 100 dealers that will be selling tomorrow and my sneak peak this afternoon was delightful. I'll try not to shop too much LOL! I'll be there bright and early with plenty of goodies! My day started out with a very surreal email that I'll share more about in another post but someone that I very much admire in this crazy/fun business of ours will be in my neighborhood soon and I look forward to meeting her in person very soon. Enjoy the weekend!

Road Trip!

2009-04-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend I took a quick road trip up the coast. After a 3 hour drive to Solvang it was time for a pit-stop!This was the cutest little town - I had never been before and hope to go back soon so spend a little more time exploring.Breakfast at the Belgian Cafe was yummy and the staff was so polite and helpful.Our journey led us here to Remnants of the Past. Judy Watkins puts on a wonderful show twice a year at the Dana Powers property in Nipomo, CA. About 90 miles North of Santa Barbara.This is the exterior of the barn the day before the big show. Magic was taking place as deales set their spaces like you've never seen before. The barn is a popular venue for weddings and it was magical with twinkle lights and lanterns. The dealers were wonderful and worked extremely hard to make sure that everything was just perfect!The property is nestled among lemon and orange orchards and the rolling hills.Just a sneak peak of what was transforming inside... Saturday morning was a gorgeous sunny day and the crowds gathered to begin their shopping adventure. As guests entered the property they were given a 2009 calendar from Susan Branch. She used to have the most adorable shop a short distance away in Arroyo Grande but it has since closed. I wondered if she was there Saturday shopping...I think I may have spotted her but I did not want to impose and ask the woman if she was Susan Branch.

Judy really puts on a first-class show. Top dealers, wonderful food, the setting could not have been more perfect and she invited Kaari Meng of French General to be there and teach a charm bracelet class that afternoon which I registered for. This is the bracelet that I made. She taught us techniques that we can use to create our own pieces which I plan to do very soon - I really want to create some re-purposed jewelry from vintage pieces that I have collected. Kaari was extremely nice and very patient with all of her students. Some of the wonderful booths that were ready for shoppers bright and early Saturday! Here is a sampling from Coco - lot's of vintage French treasures.

Georgann had some really lovely merchandise. I love the half moon window!

I love this and think many ladies read this little sign and shopped their hearts out.

Lovely flowers were everywhere!

The Flea Market recap

2009-04-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

Pam "the Sewing Queen" and I had a great time in Irvine! Her canopy's are the best and the one shown here sold! It's Patriotic themed and is so darling! Her creations are wonderful and she'll be at The Attic in Coronado on May 2nd taking custom orders for her delightful hand embroidered pillows! Some of the goodies below that I was selling...

More of Pam's pillows

The curio below and most of the other items below all went home with happy shoppers!

I think that I'm going to paint the wood ironing board below a light shade of pink and take it to Piecemakers in Costa Mesa on May 2nd. I'll be brining plenty of treasures there with me including some items to be painted and foofed up!
It was a gorgeous weekend here in So Cal. Have a great week! Erin

Lucky 7!

2009-04-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all the sweet comments that you left on my 100th Blog Post! I wish that I could send each of you a special package...you'll have to just enjoy the flowers below from Martha Stewart. The winner is #7 ~ Rebekah of of Little Byrd Vintage! she said... "Ohhh - it ALL looks wonderful! Found your blog through Sammy Girl's and looking forward to seeing more!" Please check out her blog - her Etsy shop is wonderful too! Rebekah please send me your address and I'll get your package into the mail.
Have a wonderful Easter Sunday!

100th Post Celebration!!

2009-04-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

This is no April Fools joke! With sincere appreciation for your visits to my blog I'm having a special give-away inspired by some of my favorite things! Please leave a comment on my blog and I will pick a WINNER on April 11th ~ I know ~ why so long ~ but we have a track and field invitational this weekend and the Irvine Flea Market on Sunday and then a trip to Palm Desert for a little well-deserved R&R!! If you put a link on your blog to mine mentioning the give-away and let me know I'll add your name twice to the drawing.This great little bag can be used for toiletries, cosmetics, knitting needles, just about anything and it's made to look like it's from an old flour sack

A sweet vintage postcard

This wonderful cake pedestal!

A YUMMY cake from Neiman Marcus ~ what's a celebration without cake?!

A lovely floral vintage hanky

An inspiring Flea Market Style book

We've been busy working on the backyard ~ getting the garden planted and creating a cozy space to relax on warm evenings! I hope you are having a wonderful week and I thank you for coming back to visit my blog!

Pam "the Sewing Queen" and I will be back at The Groves Antiques Market this Sunday! Row 5, Space 5 Irvine Valley College - just look for the gorgeous canopy's!

Saturday finds

2009-03-25T16:52:00.000-07:00

I've been absent from blogging for a week or so. Just a combination of many things going on and fighting another cold. I wanted to share some of my recent Saturday morning finds! Four vaseline glass plates, a wonderful glass cloche, a Southern Living Style book, an old mixing bowl, a charming vintage embroidered tablecloth, a great big frame that I plan to paint white and back with chicken wire, a cranberry glass plate, a set of gardenlight branches and a coat hook with old door knobs!

I also picked up this great 3 section room divider. The fabric panels pop out and can be changed to match the decor. Right now it's in the garage hiding all of my treasures. This great little red wicker shelving piece stands about 4 feet tall. I love the white rack - it was used in a shop to display clothes but I plan to hang aprons and linens from it at the next flea market.

I'm sorry for being absent for so long but please check back soon as I'm getting ready for my 100th post give-away and it will be awesome! Happy Hump-Day!

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2009-03-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

An Old Irish Blessing
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,and rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

***

Recipe for Traditional Irish Coffee

1/4 cup chilled whipping cream
3 teaspoons sugar
1 1/3 cups hot strong coffee
6 tablespoons (3 ounces) Irish whiskey
Preparation:
Place whipping cream and 2 teaspoons sugar in medium bowl. Whisk until cream holds firm peaks. Refrigerate cream up to 30 minutes.
Warm 2 Irish-coffee glasses (small glass mugs with handles) or heatproof stemmed glasses by running very hot water into them. Dry quickly. Place 1/2 teaspoon sugar in each warm glass. Pour in hot coffee and stir to dissolve sugar. Add 3 tablespoons Irish whiskey to each. Spoon chilled cream over coffee in each glass and serve.

We're having Irish Hand Meat Pies for dinner ~ Happy St. Patrick's Day

An Irish Dinner

2009-03-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

Last night we hosted our friends to a traditional Irish dinner. With the fire going we enjoyed champagne cocktails and Guinness along with wonderful hors d'oeuvres of Deb's warm artichoke dip, Jim's crab stuffed mushrooms and sushi here in our cozy living room.For dinner we served a salad of mixed Spring greens with candied pecans, sliced strawberries, dried cranberries and crumbled blue cheese. The main course was slow cooked corned beef, grilled salmon, cabbage, carrots and potatoes drizzled with melted butter accompanied by Irish soda bread and marbled rye. After dinner we enjoyed a yummy chocolate cake that my friend Jill made along with Irish coffees (thanks Dar for coming to the rescue with your coffee maker! ) and Irish apple cake out at the fire pit. It was such a nice evening with wonderful friends!

The Groves Antique Market!

2009-03-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

Pam "the Sewing Queen" and I partnered up together and had a wonderful space at the Antique Market! She arrived from San Diego Saturday evening and had dinner with my husband and I. It was hard to call it a night at around midnight but us girls had to get up bright (well not so bright at 4:30am) to get ourselves down to Irvine and set up for the market. We set up our side by side spaces and her canopy's were such a hit. She is one talented lady and she recieved several inquiries about her fabulous canopy's! The little piggy below came to market but he left with a lovely couple that own a shop in Old Town Orange where a rocking chair in the store awaits her arrival! The pillows that she sews are made with vintage fabrics and are all hand embroidered by her talented daughter Brit!

Not the best photo of my space - it was very early and I was still setting up and never took the change to take more photos...I sold lots of my vintage typewriter key necklaces, aprons, vintage jewelry, tea pots, cake pedestals and so on. It was nice to receive so many compliments on how nice our booth was and many inquiries as to whether or not we would be back in April! "Yes" we plan to be back on April 5!

Happy Birthday!

2009-03-02T20:44:00.001-08:00

Our oldest turned 16 today! He's such a nice young man with a wicked sense of humor, a wonderful guitar player, a big brother, he's good hearted, fun loving and loves Chipotle.
Tonight we surprised him at our favorite little Mexican restaurant with about 20 of his friends and family! He was SOOOO surprised! He wanted to go to Chipotle after his guitar lesson tonight but I told him we needed to stop at Casa and pick up some items that had been delivered there by my husband's company by mistake on our way. When we walked in he was shocked when his friends all yelled "SURPRISE"! His best friend Kaley helped me get everyone there for the dinner and the card that she made him was the best - they've been friends for about 4 years now; like brother and sister really...she had put together a collage of photos from over the years, it was really awesome! We served carrot cake - his favorite (mine too) and oreo cookie cake for everyone else :) After he got over the initial shock he had a great time...even more fun was talking to him on the way home about the planning and what he thought when he walked into the restaurant. He has an appointment to get his drivers license in another week ~ where does the time go??
Check out the Farm Chicks - they are having a give away and I know if you have not visited their blog yet, you will be hooked! They are fabulous and I'm so hoping to visit their Farm Chicks show soon. I need to order their new cookbook as I know it will be chock full of wonderful recipes!

Attention ALL Shoppers!

2009-02-28T16:01:00.000-08:00

Tommorow I will be selling at The Groves Antique Market at Irvine Valley College! Pam, "The Sewing Queen" and I will be there together, please come by and see us! We'll be located in Lot 1, Row 5, Space 4 - just look for the shabby chic canopy's! This morning I went out to a couple of estate sales and a yard sale! I bought a cement bird bath that I'm keeping for my garden. But the others items I'm taking with me tomorrow; cute child's chair, little stool, shopping cart, a couple of metal baskets, an old coke crate and two cute cubie/shelves.

These are the vintage typewriter key necklaces that I made, they are also coming with me tomorrow. They sell for $12. each.

I'll also have some wonderful epherma including vintage French postcards! Please come see us - it should be a wonderful day for shopping!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! The weather here is gorgous - here is a glimpse of my front porch - the little violas in the bike basket make me so happy.

The Challenge

2009-02-25T20:50:00.000-08:00

Check out Georgie's blog for the Love Challenge! I'm about a day behind but I love this...really gets you thinking and helps you to connect with your spouse or significant other. Today's post...Day 5-Love Is Not RudeHe who blesses his friend with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be reckoned a curse to him. --Proverbs 27:14

Dare:Ask your spouse to tell you three things that cause him or her to be uncomfortable or irritated with you. You must do so without attacking them or justifying your behavior. This is from their perspective only. I think I will do this tomorrow.

A Treasure in the Market

2009-02-23T21:13:00.001-08:00

This sweet apron is for sale! Simply leave me a comment and I'll shoot you off a paypal invoice for $24.00 including free shipping anywhere in the USA! It's not vintage or hand-made but is simply adorable.

Estate Sale Finds

2009-02-16T10:33:00.000-08:00

There were not many sales on Saturday morning but I did poke around at one estate sale. Not much that I found interesting but I did pick up these three pieces.

The pin with the green stone is a Trifari and the rhinestone bracelet is not market but all stones are intact and it's just very sweet. The floral piece was very unusual and I'm still researching it; it does not have a pin on the back so i think it must be a pendant that you string on a cord. My dear friend, Leanne from Dazzling Melange in TX who is the jewelry expert has been sent photos so we'll see what she thinks about it! Stay tuned for her response!

It's pouring rain here today in So. Cal - we need the rain but I'm looking forward to the sunshine again!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

This is the flag I'm flying today! Isn't it sweet? I may leave it up a while...at least until St. Patrick's day possibly. Hug your sweethearts today and have a lovely Valentine's Day!

And the WINNER is....

2009-02-13T18:14:00.000-08:00

Comment #10 (thanks to the random number generator) Tar from Confessions of a 40-Something Mama Queen!

Please drop me an email with your address and I'll get the Romantic Homes issues off to you. Thank you all for stopping by my blog to visit and leave lovely notes! I'm coming up on my 100th post soon and I will have another give-away!

These gorgeous flowers were sent to me by a friend earlier this week and I enjoyed them every day in my office! The photo does not do them justice....oodles of roses and hydrangeas flowing out of a weathered wooden box. Have a wonderful evening! Erin

Peddlers Market

2009-02-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday turned out to be a pretty good day considering the crazy weather we had; it rained, it stopped, it rained it stopped, etc! I set up a quick booth at the Peddlers Market and had a wonderful day selling and I met some wonderful ladies too. One woman came into my booth and I was such a dork "I know you" I said. It was Priscilla from Sweet Remembrance! She is so sweet and so is her hubby Don who took a few photos for us. I'm hoping that she and I will re-connect at one of the classes that Whimzy is hosting - we both want to learn how to sodder! She takes care of her adorable grandaughter and managers to blog and sell fabulous merch too! I love the green coat she has on her blog.
My booth was pretty empty by the time it was time to call it a day. I kept my purchases to a minimum only buying a couple of cute egg baskets. Don't forget to leave a comment to be entered into my give away!

Romantic Homes Give-Away

2009-02-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

A little give-away just for you! Here is a set of Romantic Homes Magazines in pristine condition! September 2008 - January 2009. They can be yours ~ please just leave me a comment and I will select a lucky winner on February 13th!

Have a wonderful weekend

2009-01-23T06:05:00.000-08:00

Baby steps spark miracles,

Miracles do not spark baby steps.

This is one of my favorite pictures from Centra Park - so peaceful and absolutley gorgeous!

NYC Part Deux

2009-01-22T20:23:00.000-08:00

We were exhausted but I felt like I tossed and turned all night - the heater/ac unit in the suite sounded like a dog (big dog) drinking from a water bowl all night and then another unit in the room sounded like someone was snoring/heavy breathing/asthma attack. But whatever - we were in NYC and ready to start the day; we cabbed it over to the ABC Studios and grabbed a very tall Starbuck's before heading inside and being told that we had to dump the coffees - I guess Regis and Kelly fans have a tendency to throw their coffees at the show hosts?? Our caffeine fix would have to wait until after the show. After setting off the metal detector numerous times we were inside with all of the ladies - what a gaggling bunch they were and it made for some wonderful people watching! My sister and I were escorted off to the side to a little lounge area (no coffee though) because I work for The Walt Disney Company and had an associate assist with our tickets - we felt a little special…we were joined by 1/2 a dozen or so other guests; let's see there was the lady with the very short bangs who thought she was all that and her friend who seemed like she had been up all night long and had the most intense frown lines across her forehead and then their other friend with the snow jacket on and silver dancing shoes on! We were seated front and center - a little disappointed that Kiefer Sutherland was going to be shown via video as he had taped his segment a few days prior. Regis does not work on Friday's but his guest host was Howie Mandel who was hilarious! Kelly is such a tiny little thing - she can't weigh more than 100 lbs and her arms are amazing - whatever workout she is doing - something with a ballet bar, blah blah - I give her credit - she's in amazing shape - her waist is soooo tiny! She was very sweet and interacted with the audience during commercials and even took photos with a few of her "stalkers". Yes, my sister and I were on TV! My sister won the trivia - the caller on the phone who answered the question correctly picked #3 and it was her number! She jumped up and down and you could hear me screaming in the background - she did not even know what she had won - I think she though it was the trip but it was actually a $500. gift card for Omaha Steaks - YUM! I could not stop laughing - it was just too funny that she won this and she'll be sharing some steaks with us in CA.
After the show we set out to find a Starbucks and then hop onto one of the double decker buses that tour the various areas of the city - allow you to get off and on at various stops. Our first stop was Greenich Village for pizza at John's Pizza - we had heard it was the best and we would agree! We were freezing and really wanted to put our hands right on top of the piping hot pizza pie! After warming up and filling our empty stomachs we were off again to our next stop which was Ground Zero. We spent time in St. Pauls looking at the tributes to those that were lost in the devastation to those rescue workers that worked tirelessly to make sense of it all. It was an amazing place - a beautiful church in the midst of sky scrapers…historic old tombstones that were weathered and so unexpected a scene in this urban setting. My husband and I had honeymooned in New York City 22 years ago and at that time visited the top of the World Trade Center and to see the area now and in comparison to the visuals that you see on television do not compare. It was a very sobering afternoon being reminded of the horrific tragedy that took place not so long ago. So much so that neither of us were in the mood to shop so we hopped back on the bus and made our way back up from Battery Park, the Pier back Uptown where we were dropped off at Rockefeller Center. It was 5pm and my sister suggested that we go to the Rainbow Room. I was not sure I was ready for the look over by the "Mall Cops" but what did we have to lose? Well, it was a pleasant site to see that everyone in line for the elevator looked like we did - not overly dressed or under-dressed. We were whisked up to the famous Rainbow Room where we left our coats with the coat-check and were seated in front of the fabulous view of the city at sunset. We enjoyed our cosmos and mixed nuts and were so tempted to order the $28 hamburger but no we restrained ourselves. Afterwards we walked past the Christmas tree that was coming down shortly and walked a few blocks to St. Patrick's Cathedral. It was really gorgeous inside and out - so much history and we both lit candles after walking around and admiring the architecture and sense of peace by all of the other visitors. We saw so much and did so much in this one day - my feet were killing me! We enjoyed a nice dinner and called it a day, walked back to our hotel for a little R&R.

Our Adventure in New York City Part I

2009-01-17T16:58:00.000-08:00

Our long weekend in NYC was a blast! My sister and I both flew into the city Thursday evening - her flight leaving MN was 3 hours late so after I had settled into our suite here I walked back to Grand Central Station to meet her shuttle. After she freshened up we were off for our first subway adventure to Little Italy. We got off the train at Canal street - the heart of Chinatown and just a few short blocks away was Mulberry Street. Our destination was Grotta Azuara which was recommended to me by Christi. The food was delicious; zucchini, bruschetta, caesar salad, chicken marsala and the gnocchi with walnuts and blue cheese. The bottle of chianti that we sipped was yummy too! The narrow street lined with restaurants and shops looked like something right out of the movies and the gentlemen outside of the restaurants or "barkers" were hilarious. I can't tell you how many of them offered us a "nice table in front of the fire". We browsed a bit after dinner on our way back to the subway and purchased a couple of pashmina's - who could resist for $5. a piece?"Hi Honey! How are the kids doing? We're having a great time"!

We then hopped on the subway back Uptown to Rockefeller Center. It was gorgeous and we were able to see the famous Christmas tree before it was taken down the following morning. The skating rink looks so much small in person than it does on television. We were going to skate but the next session did not begin until 10:30pm and we were a bit tired from traveling all day. We attempted to get up to the Rainbow Room but it had already closed for the evening so we planned to try again the following day. Back to our hotel in cab - just 5 short blocks but these weary travelers were looking forward to a little rest before our adventure in the morning at Regis & Kelly.

I'm off to the Big Apple!

2009-01-07T21:11:00.000-08:00

I'll be away for a few days in NYC with my sis! This is who we are going to see Friday morning!

Recipe for Chocolate Tart

2009-01-04T15:55:00.000-08:00

I love this recipe! I made one of these for Christmas dinner and again a few nights ago to take to my boss' house for dinner. The crust is like a shortbread and I used Ghiradelli semi sweet chocolate chips! Enjoy!

Ingredients
Tart Shell Pastry:
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
3 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small chunks
1 large egg, separated
2 tablespoons ice water, plus more if needed

Filling:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
10 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
Directions
To make the pastry: combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the butter and mix with a pastry blender or hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in the middle of the pastry. Combine the egg yolk with the ice water in a small bowl, whisking to blend; pour it into the well and work it in to bind the dough until it holds together without being too wet or sticky. Squeeze a small amount together, if it is crumbly, add more ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time. Form the dough into a disk and wrap in plastic; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about 1/4-inch thick. Carefully roll the dough up onto the pin (this may take a little practice) and lay it inside a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough into the pan so it fits tightly; press the edges into the sides of the pan. It is important to press the dough evenly into every nook and corner of the ring, especially the scalloped edges. Shave off the excess hanging dough with a knife. Put the tart in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to relax.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the tart pan on a sturdy cookie sheet so it will be easy to move in and out of the oven. Line the tart with aluminum foil and add pie weights or dried beans to keep the sides of the tart from buckling. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and weights. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the crust with a beaten egg white. Return to the oven and continue to bake for another 8 minutes until the tart is golden in color, but not brown. Remember the tart will be cooked again with the filling. It should be cooked but light in color so that it will not burn on the second bake. Set aside to cool and lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees F.
To make the filling: Heat the heavy cream and milk in a pot over medium-low flame, until it simmers slightly around the edges. Remove from the heat; add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted and smoothed out. Add the sugar and salt and whisk until well incorporated. Beat the eggs in a small bowl until blended and add them to the chocolate mixture, stir until completely blended. Pour the filling into the cooled tart shell and bake at 325 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes until the filling is set and the surface is glossy. If you see any bubbles or cracks forming on the surface, take the tart out right away - that means it is beginning to become over baked. Cool before cutting. Recipe courtesy of Tyler Florence - he is a cutie and photo courtesy of foodnetwork.com

Thank you Pam!

2009-01-04T15:44:00.001-08:00

Thank you Pam for the wonderful Christmas gifts~ you are so talented!! I hope to see you very, very soon!

Birthday Bliss!

2009-01-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

Silly girl me trying to take a picture of us all with my short arms!

Birthday bliss today with my best friends! Tomorrow is the actual day but today was celebrating with my very bestest friends. We headed out to the Irvine Flea Market with yummy chai latte's in hand this morning. It was a gorgeous day for browsing and shopping; I ended up making just one purchase - my lovely weathered crown. We had so much fun looking through "attitude" rings - the cute vendor had such a selection however we did not buy just looked and thought that having a 5+ carat diamond was not very believable. Jill purchased a really cute vintage Santa pin for next year and Debra purchased some great old bottles that we know she will create something wonderful with. Dar aka our little chocolate lab (she had the softest jogging outfit that reminded us of a chocolate lab puppy) did not buy anything today... Jill decided that she needs a chandelier in her kitchen and the one we saw was almost $300. We'll be keeping our out for the perfect one for her now. Then it was over to a loverly waterfront brunch in Irvine where we enjoyed mimosa's and delicious crab and avocado filled omeletes.

Thank you BFF's for a really fun day ~ love you all!!